IF WALLS COULD TALK (1)

If Walls Could Talk 2026

William Humphreys Art Gallery, Permanent Collection

If Walls Could Talk 2026

Published On: October 29, 2026

The William Humphreys Art Gallery (WHAG), in partnership with the District Grand Lodge of South Africa, Central Division, invites muralists and graffiti artists to apply for participation in its community‑driven public art commission, If Walls Could Talk.

This initiative forms part of WHAG’s Community Arts and Cultural Development programme, which invests in creative interventions that bring art into public spaces and make it accessible to all.

The 2026 theme, “You Can Be the Change”, builds on last year’s focus and highlights the importance of everyday compassion. It celebrates the transformative power of small acts of humility and kindness in strengthening communities.

Applications Close: 15 November 2026

  • The successful artist will be notified by 23 November 2026.
  • Interested artists must be available to produce the mural in Kimberley from 7-10 December 2026

Project Description:

Experienced graffiti artists/muralists are invited to submit concept designs for a public mural according to the following specifications and design guidelines:

  • Theme/slogan: “You Can Be the Change”.
  • The slogan/theme “You Can Be the Change” must feature in your design.
  • The mural will be created across five connected wall panels. (Please see image of wall below)
  • Each panel must feature one word from the theme/slogan “You Can Be the Change” as its focal point.
  • Each word should be bold, legible, and central to its wall section.
  • Please note that the brick pillars between the wall panels do not have to be painted.
  • Background Design: Create a background design for each word by incorporating South African cultural symbols and patterns to enrich the design of each wall panel.
  • Unity of Composition: While each panel carries its own word and design, the five panels must be viewed as a single, cohesive artwork. The theme should flow seamlessly across the panels, ensuring readability and impact for viewers.
  • Concept artwork: Your submitted concept artwork must accurately represent the intended final mural. The adjudication panel cannot evaluate incomplete or vague sketches/designs – your design must clearly show how the proposed finished mural will look in colour.
  • Please note* Your concept artwork MUST be scaled according to the wall specifications. (See diagram with actual measurements below.)

PROJECT BUDGET: R 30 000.00

  • This is a cost-to-company budget and is inclusive of the completion of the artwork, all materials, meals and travel.
  • Additional: Self-catering accommodation for 5 nights will be provided for the artist.
  • Location: Kimberley, Northern Cape Province
  • Actual Size of Mural:

APPLICATION PROCESS:

Please note: Applicants need to be registered on the National Central Suppliers Database. To register on the Central Suppliers Database or check your status, please make use of the following links:

How to Register on the CSD? https://secure.csd.gov.za/Home/RegistrationProcess

CSD Login: https://secure.csd.gov.za/Account/Login

Application Documents that need to be submitted during the online application process:

1.     Mural Design (one artwork per submission).
2.     Artist Portfolio of previous murals (max 5 pages)
3.     CSD registration report and/or Master Registration Number (MAAA)
4.     Copy of Identity Document
5.     Completed SBD4 Document
6.     Valid SARS Tax Compliance Status or Tax Compliance PIN for verification

Please download the SBD4 Document using the link below. Please complete the document and upload during the application process: 

https://drive.google.com/file/d/19Ocnr4kWoAKTKdPQlC46JYisZZ3tWXE5/view?usp=sharing

To apply please follow the link and complete the online application process: https://forms.gle/TxFG2cEXRndPPRxh6

 

Event Information: